James Northcote, Lions [sic], to Samuel Northcote, Plymouth

Archive context

Reference code

NOR/31

Title

James Northcote, Lions [sic], to Samuel Northcote, Plymouth

Date

28 Apr 1777

Level

Item

Extent & medium

2 pieces

Content Description

He discusses arrangements for the pictures in process before he left, those of John Harris and Mrs Harris, Sir Joshua thought them good heads, the paint was still wet when he left, his brother should talk to Ralph Kirkley if required; describes his journey; witnesses a punch and judy show at East Grainstead [East Grinstead]; the crossing from Brighthelmestone [Brighton] to Dieppe, where he is "struck" by a "miserable figure of Christ" at the port entrance; comments on the dress of the local women; the chaise to Rouen is old-fashioned compared to those in England, sees monks for the first time in Rouen and discusses his impressions of the churches and paintings therein; arrival in Paris; a visit to Versailles where the splendour overwhelms him "ceiling painted by Le Brun"; he sees the King "I could have touched him with my hand", and court.